Mr. Dayton to Mr. Seward
Sir: The absence of the Emperor and court from Paris, the withdrawal of Mr. Roebuck’s motion in the British House of Commons, and the present [Page 754] uncertain condition of things between the two armies in the United States, have produced here a temporary quiet in our affairs. Until the result of Lee’s invasion is well understood, there will be little disposition manifested at this court to speculate upon American affairs.
At present we have news up to the 4th instant, which leave the armies, after a three days’ fight, almost statu quo. Still I cannot but feel that this must be a serious check to the rebel advance, and that while they are diminishing in numbers, we must be increasing vastly in numerical strength.
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The diplomatic corps here are awaiting with some anxiety the arrival of the answer of Russia (which is expected to day, or to-morrow, at furthest) to the proposition of the three powers in reference to the affairs of Poland; but I do not anticipate war as a result, let the answer be what it may.
France will not move, as I have heretofore informed you, without England, and England will not embark in war for Poland.
It has been said that France is the only nation that goes to war for an idea. However this may have been in the past, her present rulers are as little disposed to overlook material interests as the people of other countries. Their steady increase of wealth, and consequent comfort, for the last fifteen years, has had upon the national feeling and policy an influence somewhat akin to a like increase of wealth upon individuals in private life—it has made them more provident and wary.
I am, sir, your obedient servant,
His Excellency William H. Seward, Secretary of State, &c.